Federal SSI Income Limits

As of 2025, the federal income limits for SSI are:

• Individuals: $967 per month
• Couples: $1,450 per month

These amounts represent the maximum federal benefit rates and are subject to reduction based on countable income. It's important to note that not all income is countable. The SSA excludes certain types of income, such as the first $20 of most income received in a month and the first $65 of earnings, plus half of earnings over $65.

Countable Income and Exclusions

The SSA considers both earned and unearned income when determining SSI eligibility:

• Earned Income: Wages, net earnings from self-employment, and other compensation for work.
• Unearned Income: Social Security benefits, pensions, state disability payments, unemployment benefits, and cash from friends and relatives.

However, the SSA excludes certain income from consideration:

• The first $20 of most income received in a month.
• The first $65 of earnings and half of earnings over $65.
• Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits.
• Shelter provided by nonprofit organizations.
• Home energy assistance.

These exclusions mean that you can have income above the federal benefit rate and still qualify for SSI, depending on the nature and amount of the income.

Resource Limits

In addition to income limits, SSI has strict resource limits:

• Individuals: $2,000
• Couples: $3,000

Resources include cash, bank accounts, stocks, bonds, and real estate (other than your primary residence). Certain resources are excluded, such as:

• Your home and the land it is on.
• One vehicle, regardless of value, if it is used for transportation.
• Household goods and personal effects.
• Life insurance policies with a face value of $1,500 or less.
• Burial plots for you and members of your immediate family.

Michigan State Supplement

Michigan provides a state supplement to the federal SSI payment for certain recipients, such as those in adult foster care or personal care homes. The amount of the state supplement varies based on living arrangements and other factors. The SSA administers this supplement, so eligible individuals receive a combined payment that includes both federal and state amounts.

Recent Changes Affecting SSI Recipients

Effective September 30, 2024, the SSA no longer counts food provided by others as in-kind support and maintenance (ISM). This change means that receiving food from friends, family, or charitable organizations will not reduce your SSI benefits. However, shelter provided by others is still considered ISM and can affect your benefit amount.